Flu shot time arrives

SIKESTON -- Although they ran out of the seasonal flu vaccine early last year, area health departments and other places that administer the vaccine say there should be plenty to go around this year.

"Last year we gave out all we had and there was a big rush on it," recalled Kay Griffin, nurse practitioner at the Scott County Health Department. "But I think there will be plenty of vaccine this year. We have the vaccine and should be able to get more if we need it."

As the shot is available not only at health departments but also pharmacies and physicians offices, Griffin said anyone who wants the shot should be able to get it this year, so long as they do in a reasonable amount of time. "Last year, they stopped making the vaccine so they could focus on one for H1N1," she said.

The New Madrid County Health Department has already received its vaccines as well.

"We're ready to go," said Jayne Dees, administrator. "This is the first time in several years we've gotten a vaccine this early, so we're really excited about it."

Demand for the vaccine hasn't yet picked up, however.

"It's slow," said Melanie DeWitt, administrator at the Mississippi County Health Department. Since the department ran out early last year, she ordered more doses for this season.

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